What is RPL (VÕTA in Estonian)?

RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) is the process whereby an institution assesses the
competence of an applicant based on specific criteria- how the applicant’s
knowledge, skills and attitudes adhere to the learning outcomes of the
curriculum or its part(s). If the applicant’s competence corresponds to these
requirements, they will be taken into account in the fulfillment of the
curriculum.

THE GOAL OF RPL IS:

to value the competency of a person and provide equal opportunities for assessing and acknowledge it, regardless of the time, place and manner of acquiring the knowledge and skills;
support lifelong learning and flexibility between the education system and the labour market as well as within these.

WHO NEEDS RPL AND BENEFITS FROM IT?

The recognition of prior learning (RPL) can be beneficial for people who wish to:

continue interrupted studies;
consciously plan further careers;
change their curricula or specialty (even within the same institution);
apply for the recognition of knowledge acquired informally through work or leisure activities.

RPL MAKES IT POSSIBLE TO CONSIDER:

prior studies in educational institutions;
knowledge and skills acquired through additional training or independent studies;
knowledge and skills acquired through professional and other experiences.

RPL primarily focuses on how the content of prior knowledge or skills aligns with a curriculum. Only competencies that match the learning outcomes of the specific curriculum and subject or module can be considered.

THE ROLE OF RPL IN OBTAINING AN EDUCATION

RPL provides more flexible opportunities for obtaining an education. Through RPL, individuals can:

complete studies more quickly and improve their position in the labor market;
make optimal use of the resources available from an educational institution or employer;
utilize their personal, social, and economic potential more efficiently;
plan their career and studies with greater awareness.

For instance, with RPL you can pass a subject or module based on earlier studies if you have completed a similar course in another educational institution or through additional training.

RPL ASSESSMENT BY AN EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION OR PROFESSIONAL BODY INVOLVES EXAMINING:

– not just the experience itself, but what has been learned from it;
– knowledge, skills, and competence, including the ability to generalize and apply said knowledge;
– correspondence to the subject, module, curriculum goals, and learning outcomes or professional standards;
– the ability to perform at the specified level.

If necessary, the person or committee assessing the applicant may request additional documents, conduct an interview, or assign a practical task, among other measures.

Before applying for the recognition of prior studies and professional experience, the applicant must conduct a self-analysis and compile and collect evidence.

Useful:

RPL information materials – information about RPL compiled by Ministry of Education and Research

For the RPL applicant – helps the RPL applicant prepare for the RPL application process